Recipe

Zhi Ma Bao - Chinese Sesame Seed Buns

Golden Delights: Irresistible Chinese Sesame Seed Buns

4.7 out of 5

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Chinese cuisine with Zhi Ma Bao, a traditional sesame seed bun that is both savory and sweet. These golden buns are a popular treat in China, known for their soft and fluffy texture and the aromatic crunch of sesame seeds.

Dessert› Zhi ma bao

Asian cuisine› Chinese cuisine

Preparation time

20 minutes

Cooking time

15-20 minutes

Total time

1 hour 35 minutes

Yields

8 servings

Preparation difficulty

Medium

Suitable for

Vegetarian, Dairy-free (if using plant-based milk and butter substitute), Nut-free (if using a different filling)

Allergens

Wheat (gluten), Milk, Egg

Not suitable for

Gluten-free (contains all-purpose flour), Vegan (contains milk, butter, and egg)

Ingredients

2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons (25g) sugar 2 tablespoons (25g) sugar
1 teaspoon (5g) instant yeast 1 teaspoon (5g) instant yeast
1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk
2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, softened 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, softened
1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup (120g) black sesame paste 1/2 cup (120g) black sesame paste
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
1/4 cup (40g) sesame seeds, for coating 1/4 cup (40g) sesame seeds, for coating

Nutrition

Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
Fat: 8g (1.5g saturated)
Carbohydrates: 38g (10g sugars)
Protein: 6g
Fiber: 2g
Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1.
In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt.
2.
Gradually add the warm milk and softened butter to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
3.
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5.
Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball.
6.
Flatten each dough ball and place a spoonful of black sesame paste in the center. Gather the edges and seal the bun, ensuring the filling is completely enclosed.
7.
Place the buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle generously with sesame seeds.
8.
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Let the buns rest for 15 minutes while the oven preheats.
9.
Bake the buns for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
10.
Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

Black sesame paste — Ensure you use a high-quality black sesame paste for the filling, as it greatly impacts the flavor of the buns. If you can't find black sesame paste, you can make your own by grinding roasted black sesame seeds with sugar until smooth.
Sesame seeds — Toast the sesame seeds lightly in a dry pan before using them for coating. This will enhance their aroma and flavor.

Tips & Tricks

To achieve a soft and fluffy texture, make sure the dough rises in a warm place without any drafts.
If you prefer a sweeter filling, you can add a bit of honey or sweetened condensed milk to the black sesame paste.
Serve the Zhi Ma Bao warm for the best taste and texture.
These buns can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days, but they are best enjoyed fresh.

Serving advice

Serve the Zhi Ma Bao as a delightful snack or dessert. They are perfect for afternoon tea or as a sweet treat after a meal. Pair them with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a truly satisfying experience.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Zhi Ma Bao on a serving platter, showcasing their golden crust and sesame seed coating. You can sprinkle some powdered sugar on top for an extra touch of elegance. Serve them individually or in a basket lined with a clean cloth for a more casual presentation.